Saint Ursula and Her Companions c. 17th century

Editor: Here we have Jacques Callot's "Saint Ursula and Her Companions." It’s a tiny piece, only a few inches, but it feels epic. The composition, with the saints on one side and the attackers on the other, creates a striking contrast. What do you make of this print? Curator: The composition is indeed quite deliberate. Note the oval format, constricting the figures yet emphasizing their spatial relationships. Callot's use of line is masterful, creating depth and texture in such a small format. Consider how the lines vary in thickness to suggest form and shadow. Editor: That's fascinating. I hadn't focused on the lines themselves. What does that contribute to the overall effect? Curator: The precision and intricacy elevate it beyond a simple narrative, emphasizing the inherent visual qualities of the printmaking medium. Editor: So, it’s not just about the story, but about how the story is told through line and form. I’ll definitely look at prints differently now.